איוב, פרק ט״ו, פסוק ב׳

In his second response to Job, Eliphaz fundamentally shifts his tone. Initially, he attempted to explain Job's suffering as a form of moral instruction from God. However, after Job continues to justify himself and argue directly with God, Eliphaz begins to view Job's very arguments as proof of his wickedness [רמב״ן]. Eliphaz challenges Job's pride in his own intellect, questioning how a man who considers himself wise can offer such empty claims [אלשיך].

The primary approach among commentators views this reaction as an expression of sheer astonishment. It seems impossible that a truly wise person would answer those trying to guide him with foolishness and empty wind lacking any real substance [רש״י, מצודת דוד, רמב״ן]. Furthermore, speaking this way reveals a deep moral flaw. A genuinely wise individual does not arrogantly disrespect his peers by rudely dismissing their claims as mere wind [אלשיך].

As the criticism intensifies, the imagery shifts to the east wind, a natural force known for being exceptionally fierce, strong, and dry [אבן עזרא, מלבי״ם, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This contrast highlights a sharp distinction between external speech and internal thought. A wise person is expected to ensure that both his spoken words are useful and his inner thoughts are grounded in truth. Eliphaz accuses Job of failing on both fronts: not only is his speech empty, but his inner self is filled with a hollow, stormy wind [מלבי״ם, רמב״ן, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Building on this idea, another perspective highlights a dangerous escalation. While Job's outward speech might seem like a harmless, passing breeze, the thoughts brewing inside him are far more destructive and fierce, resembling the harsh and damaging east wind [אלשיך].